HOT Courses (Hands On Training)
Forcible Entry Fundamentals
Course Description: This hands-on training course builds the foundation of effective forcible entry for the modern firefighter. Students will perform 1- and 2-person techniques on both inward and outward swinging doors using real tools and real scenarios. We’ll cover limited space entry, working in zero visibility, and how to maximize mechanical advantage when you're short on help or facing tough conditions. This course is designed to improve your speed, precision, and confidence with additional leverage techniques and MA tools.
Forcible Entry: Beyond The Basics
This course dives into the unforgiving realities of today's fireground, where standard forcible entry techniques aren't always enough. Students will face fortified doors, drop bars, carriage bolts, roll-down gates, HUD windows, and window bars—all designed to keep you out. We'll break down the tactics, tool selection, and teamwork needed to defeat modern fortification, from cutting steel to reading the resistance.
Portable Ladders & VES (Vent-Enter-Search)
This course covers the fundamentals of portable ladder deployment, selection, and placement for both rescue and tactical operations. Firefighters will learn how to rapidly and safely raise ladders in high-stress environments, focusing on window and roof access, victim removal, and fireground support. The training then transitions into VES operations — teaching students how to identify viable entry points, make controlled entries through windows, isolate rooms, and perform quick searches under high-heat, low-visibility conditions.
Search Techniques & Victim Removal
This course focuses on aggressive yet disciplined primary and secondary search tactics for both residential and commercial structures. Firefighters will develop skills in oriented, team-based, and solo search techniques under realistic fireground conditions, including zero visibility and chaotic layouts. Emphasis is placed on maintaining situational awareness, managing search ropes, and effective communication. The course also covers victim identification, removal methods, and prioritizing rescue under time-critical conditions.
Roof Operations
This course delivers hands-on instruction in safe, effective vertical ventilation operations. Students will learn roof size-up, structural awareness, and coordinated saw work using both chainsaws and rotary saws. Skills covered include executing the 4x4, 7-8-9, and trench cuts from peaked and flat roofs, including aerial platform deployment techniques. The course also covers smoke removal strategies using Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV). Emphasis is placed on teamwork, tool handling, and critical decision-making under fireground conditions. Whether working from ladders, aerials, or walking the roof, this course sharpens the confidence and precision needed for aggressive ventilation with control.
Mayday Firefighter Down
This course prepares firefighters to recognize, call, and respond to a Mayday scenario with urgency and precision. Through realistic, stress-induced training, students will practice self-survival techniques, SCBA emergencies, and entanglement hazards. Team-based evolutions will focus on locating, packaging, and removing a downed firefighter using proven RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) tactics. Emphasis is placed on radio communication, air management, and the mental discipline needed when every second counts. Whether you’re the one calling the Mayday or responding to it, this course builds the confidence and skills required to bring one of our own home.